Appearance:
Cigarette beetles are shiny and yellowish to reddish-brown in color. They are oval shaped and the head is bent downward sharply and often concealed by the pronotum, or head shield, when the beetle is viewed from above. The wing covers are smooth and they have serrated antennae.

Size:
Cigarette beetles are quite small, measuring only about 1/10-inch in length.

Behavior:
Cigarette beetles have a life cycle of 70-90 days, depending on the temperature. When fully grown, the larvae are c-shaped and covered with long hairs. They are known primarily as stored-food pests, feeding on common pantry items, and are known to infest dried tobacco and tobacco products, hence their name.

They prefer to reside in dark cracks and crevices and are most active at night. They are also strong fliers and can be a nuisance to homeowners by flying on windows and doors in large numbers.

Habitat:
Aside from residing in dried tobacco and related products, Cigarette beetles are often found infesting raisins, figs, dates, ginger, wheat and wheat bran, beans, cereals, peanuts, dry pet food, dried flowers, leather and wool cloth, etc. They may also damage book bindings when feeding on the paste and on furniture stuffing.

Interesting fact:
Cigarette beetles have been known to feed on pyrethrum powder strong enough to kill cockroaches, will no ill effect.

Control:
The simplest and most effective control method is to locate the source of infestation and quickly eradicate. Use a flashlight or other light source to carefully examine all food storage areas and food products carefully. It is best to dispose of heavily infested foods, although they may be used as birdfeed.

Proper sanitation is also essential in controlling cigarette beetles. Vacuum up all particles of spilled dry foods, especially from cracks and crevices and from under appliances and furniture.

Examine broken and damaged packages and boxes to avoid bringing these cigarette beetles into the home. Purchase seldom-used foods in small quantities to prevent storage periods of one month or more, especially during the warm summer months. Always keep food-storage spaces clean, and be sure to ventilate the storage area as they are attracted to moisture.

Do you live in Florida and think this beetle may be invading your home or business? Floridabugs.com offers specifically designed pest control treatments to regulate and eliminate these pests! FloridaBugs.com – the finest in Florida pest control.